A wireless local area network (LAN) is a flexible data communications system implemented as an extension to, or as an alternative to, a wired LAN. Using radio frequency technology, wireless LANs transmit and receive data over air waves. Wireless LANs combine broadband data connectivity with user mobility.
A wireless LAN is the perfect solution for varying types of business including healthcare, retail, manufacturing and warehousing. However, wireless LAN technology particularly benefits the following scenarios:
As a technology that increases mobility there are few restrictions. However, the following should be taken into account when considering a wireless LAN solution:
Wireless networks are becoming increasingly common as the technology gains acceptance and the cost of hardware continues to fall.
WiFi ability for laptops allows access to the internet, while corporate networks can increase productivity, mobility and flexibility. Due to the proliferation of WiFi in home networks, it is now very much a user driven requirement for many corporate environments.
With the significant benefits that wireless technology provides, there are also important security and infrastructure requirements that need to be considered in the business environment.